TGI Fridays owner responds to liquor swap lawsuit

LIVINGSTON — The owner of 16 TGI Friday’s in New Jersey has responded to allegations in a civil action lawsuit that the company’s restaurants swapped “cheaper, cut-rate” substitute liquor for premium liquor.

Rick Barbrick, president of Livingston-based Briad Restaurant Group, said in a statement Wednesday that the company has not yet reviewed the complaint and “therefore are not clear regarding its merits.”

“However, we reiterate our ongoing mission to ensure that all of our strict bar and beverage standards are being followed and that our commitment to integrity is being adhered to in all actions,” he said. “Briad will take the steps necessary to correct issues identified through our investigation including the complete retraining of our teams so that guests have full confidence in the quality of our food, drink and service.”

Kristi Pasieka and Nicole E. Ruglio both claim they ordered a premium liquor beverage from one of the Livingston-based Briad Group-owned TGI Fridays locations, but were served a “cheaper, cut-rate” substitute liquor. The women were then charged the higher price associated with the premium liquor, according to court documents.

The suit follows a sting announced last week by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office called “Operation Swill,” alleging 29 bars in the state substituted premium top-shelf brands with well brands. One of the 29 bars cited allegedly passed off dirty water as a top-shelf liquor, while another one mixed a concoction of rubbing alcohol and caramel food coloring to create a fine scotch, according to the Attorney General’s Office.

The raided establishments targeted 13 TGI Fridays locations, including the restaurants in Hamilton, Freehold and East Windsor.